Design & Technology M.F.A.

M.F.A. – Design + Technology

We respect and encourage the unique talents and potential of each individual. Our program integrates classroom theory with studio practice, providing design, production, and leadership experiences that emulate the scale, complexity and aesthetic integrity of professional regional theatres.

The principals of analysis, research, adaptation, invention, organization, and communication are fundamental to success in the evolving field of Design Tech—and they are central to our training.

Under the guidance of mentors who excel at their profession, our students achieve an enduring, well-rounded knowledge of the theatre arts. They learn to use research methods essential to their specialization, and gain the effective collaboration skills needed for mounting excellent productions in the performing arts.

Innovation + Excellence

The current era not is necessarily bound by conventional ideas of performance. As storytelling develops in ways that extend beyond traditional theatrical spaces, entire performance genres are being reimagined for new generations. A more active and technologically facilitated experience is often selected to replace previously passive modes of audience experience.

Training young artists in the conception and execution of these new forms of theatrical experience is an emergent trend in theatrical pedagogy. Our design tech faculty is equipped to teach these methodologies. As recognized professionals, they are engaged in research and production at the national and international level.

The Design and Technology division of the department seeks to stake its claim as a leader in this highly valued mode of theatrical engagement. This effort reflects a concerted effort to fulfill the university’s mandate as an important center of research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Explore our Design + Technology M.F.A. degrees

Retention

Each year, you are invited to continue in the program after the faculty has assessed your academic success, artistic growth, and professional development. A 3.2 GPA or higher typically indicates academic success.

Your faculty advisor provides an interim evaluation at the end of each Fall semester. At the end of the first and the second year, you are required to present their portfolio with an oral interview to the Design and Technology Faculty Committee. At this time the committee will determine whether you shall be advanced in the program. Weaknesses in the areas of academic success, artistic growth and professional development will be identified and may result in a probationary semester or dismissal from the program.

Our Mission

We aim to advance the art and practice of theatre design and technology in a nurturing and transforming atmosphere, engaging the forefront of innovation and research.